GoKawiilNBER Study Examines Long-Term Effects of Universal Child Care on Mothers
A new NBER working paper by researchers including Baker examines the long-run impact of a universal child care program, focusing on outcomes for mothers rather than just children. The study draws on data analyzed through the Canadian Research Data Centre Network, using British Columbia's research infrastructure to assess how access to subsidized child care shaped mothers' economic trajectories over time.
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Most child care research centers on child development outcomes, so a focus on mothers fills a gap in understanding how subsidized care affects women's labor force participation, earnings, and career paths over the long term. Findings from this kind of study could inform policy debates in the US and elsewhere about the economic case for universal child care beyond its benefits to children.
- The paper studies long-run effects of universal child care specifically on mothers' outcomes.
- Research relied on Canadian administrative and research data center resources.
- Funding sources include University of British Columbia, CIHR, and a Canadian government agency.
Source: nber.org — Michael Baker, 2026-09-09
Published there as: “Investing in Mothers? The Long-Run Impact of a Universal Child Care”
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